The Best Way To Combat Iron Deficiency: Gentle Iron

What is Iron's role in the body?

Iron is an essential mineral for the human body and plays a crucial role in various physiological processes. Here are some reasons why we need iron:

Oxygen Transport

One of the primary functions of iron is to help transport oxygen in the blood. Haemoglobin, a protein found in red blood cells, contains iron at its core. Haemoglobin binds to oxygen in the lungs and carries it to tissues and organs throughout the body. This ensures that cells receive the oxygen they need for energy production and metabolism.

Energy production

Iron is also involved in energy production within cells. It is a component of enzymes involved in the electron transport chain, a process that occurs in the mitochondria of cells and is responsible for generating adenosine triphosphate (ATP), the body's main energy currency.

Immune function

Iron is necessary for the proper function of the immune system. It helps in the production of white blood cells, which play a crucial role in defending the body against infections and diseases.

Brain development and function

Iron is important for brain development in infants and children. It is involved in the formation of myelin, a substance that coats nerve fibers and allows for efficient nerve signal transmission. Iron deficiency during critical developmental periods can lead to cognitive and behavioural impairments.

DNA synthesis

Iron is a key component of enzymes, such as helicases, nucleases, glycosylases, demethylases, involved in DNA synthesis, repair, and replication. This is essential for cell growth and division.#

Detoxification

Iron is required for the proper function of enzymes involved in detoxifying harmful substances in the body, such as certain drugs and environmental toxins. For example, Iron is at the core of Haemoglobin which helps rid the body of toxins such as hydrogen and carbon.

Signs of Iron Deficiency

Iron deficiency can lead to a condition known as iron deficiency anaemia, which occurs when there is a decrease in the number of red blood cells or a decrease in the amount of haemoglobin in the blood due to insufficient iron. The symptoms of iron deficiency anaemia can vary in severity and may include:

• Fatigue and Weakness
• Pale Skin
• Shortness of Breath
• Cold Hands and Feet
• Headaches and Dizziness
• Brittle Nails
• Craving Non-Food Substances
• Restless Legs Syndrome
• Poor Immune Function
• Palpitations or Rapid Heartbeat

What is Gentle Iron?

Gentle iron refers to a form of iron supplement that is designed to be easier on the stomach and cause fewer gastrointestinal side effects compared to traditional iron supplements. Iron supplements are commonly used to treat iron deficiency anaemia or to prevent iron deficiency in individuals who may have difficulty obtaining sufficient iron from their diets.

Traditional iron supplements can sometimes cause gastrointestinal discomfort, including nausea, constipation, and stomach upset, which can lead to poor adherence to treatment. To address these issues, gentle iron supplements are formulated in a way that minimises these side effects while still providing the necessary iron.

How is Gentle Iron different to Normal Iron?

Gentle iron supplements are adapted to work better than normal iron supplements by utilising different forms of iron and formulations that are designed to minimise gastrointestinal side effects and enhance absorption. Here's how gentle iron is adapted to improve its effectiveness and tolerability:

Type of Iron

Gentle iron supplements often use specific forms of iron that are less likely to cause stomach upset and gastrointestinal irritation. For example, iron bisglycinate is a form of iron that is bound to the amino acid glycine. This amino acid may help protect the stomach lining and reduce irritation.

Enhances Absorption

Some gentle iron supplements incorporate technologies or compounds that enhance the absorption of iron. This can include using substances like vitamin C, which can improve the absorption of non-heme iron (the type of iron found in plant-based foods and supplements).

Coating and Encapsulation

Gentle iron supplements may use special coatings or encapsulation techniques that allow the iron to be released slowly and gradually in the digestive tract. This can help reduce the concentration of iron in one area of the digestive system, potentially minimising irritation.

Liposomal Delivery

Liposomes are tiny fat-like particles that can encapsulate iron. When these Liposomes enter the bloodstream, they become coated by the plasma proteins circulating within the blood. The presence of this protein coating modifies the arrangement of the liposomal bilayer, leading to a quick release of the liposome's contents (in this case iron), improving the absorption of the iron and helping to reduce stomach irritation.

Reduced Dosage Frequency

Some gentle iron supplements are formulated for less frequent dosing, as spreading out the intake of iron over the course of a day or several days can help reduce the risk of gastrointestinal discomfort.

Gentle Iron products we recommend:

BetterYou Iron Oral Spray offers a pioneering solution to the digestive discomfort experienced from ingested iron supplements.

Each spray produces a plume of micro-droplets that permeate the soft-tissue of the inner-cheek, delivering essential nutrients into the rich vein system below. Micro-emulsified to product optimal droplet size and plume delivery, ensuring an effective and convenient alternative to table and capsule iron supplements

This supplement includes Vitamin C with Iron, as iron absorption from plant-foods can be as little as 2-5%, but including Vitamin C Increases absorption by 10x, helping a healthy immune system and increased energy levels.

Solgar Gentle Iron 20mg is ideal for those who find traditional iron supplements difficult to take and/or may cause bloating, constipation and digestive issues. Solgar’s formula contains iron bisglycinate, a form of iron that is easy to absorb and gentle on sensitive stomachs.

FAQs

What are the best Iron-rich foods?

• Liver (but avoid during pregnancy)
• Red Meat
• Beans, such as red kidney beans, edamame beans and chickpeas
• Nuts
• Dried fruits, such as dried apricots
• Fortified breakfast cereals
• Soy bean flour

Does Gentle Iron work for anaemia?

Yes, gentle iron is a form of iron supplement and will therefore increase iron levels in the body, improving symptoms of iron deficiency anaemia.

How long does it take Gentle Iron to work?

It should take 1-2 week for you to start noticing the impacts of the gentle iron supplements, however this can vary from person to person and can take up to 3 months to truly see the affects.

Is Gentle Iron the best non constipation Iron supplement?

Yes! The types of iron used in gentle iron supplements are less likely to cause stomach upset, such as iron bisglycinate (as mentioned above). Also, they could have special coatings that are designed to release iron gradually into the digestive tract, reducing irritation. Finally, there are gentle iron supplements such as the BetterYou Iron Spray whihc completely bypass the digestive system and go straight into the bloodstream preventing any digestive discomfort.